FollowIf you’re wondering why spring in Oklahoma seems to come with a whole new round of runny noses, we have the answer. According to Mother Nature Network (mmn.com), Oklahoma City ranks 10th in the 12 worst cities for allergy sufferers. While we love to see the vibrant colors of spring, we also fear the pollen behind it, and for good reason.
There are a number of ways to take care of your sniffling woes and sneeze attacks, such as over-the-counter antihistamines. But in an age of severe over medication, you might be looking for a more natural approach. In that case, essential oils might be for you.
Essential oils have been used for thousands of years, for both cosmetic and therapeutic purposes. Extracting the oils from plants is a delicate process, but leads to the purest, strongest essence of that plant to be used in physical wellness, as well as spiritual and emotional. Oil users are particularly keen on these power plants to combat spring allergies during peak allergy season, between February and June.
“My four go-to oils for allergies are lemon, lavender, peppermint and cedarwood,” says Allison Petrick, who uses a number of essential oils every day. “I had a cough for like two weeks because of cedar wood trees, so a lot of times if you’re allergic to a plant, you’ll actually benefit from the essential oil of the same plant. All the proteins that cause a reaction are taken out during the distillation process.”
Petrick also claims that lavender can be used as a natural antihistamine. “I never use any antihistamine other than lavender,” Petrick says. “When my kids have a runny nose, when I’m sneezing, just a few drops of lavender on the sternum and around the eyes, even breathing it in, will almost stop it immediately. The bridge of the nose and forehead are good spots, too.”
Many essential oil users purchase a diffuser to keep the oils running throughout their home.
“I keep one in my kitchen, but then in my kids rooms they have their own diffuser,” says Petrick. “I diffuse cedarwood and lavender. Cedarwood has a component that produces natural melatonin, which helps with sleep.”
While Petrick says there are many companies selling essential oils right now, she claims it is vital to find a reputable one to make sure you’re getting the purest form possible. Anything less could be a danger to your health, which isn’t worth saving a few bucks.
“Through the research I’ve done, Young Living is the one I trust,” Petrick asserts. “They’re the only therapeutic grade out there. The founder of the company has put his heart and soul in this, and he’s so meticulous on how he distills the oils. These are the only organic, therapeutic grade ones you can take internally as well.”
All in all, Petrick says she wants people to give oils a chance if they haven’t yet. She has seen people’s health completely change for the better once they find the oils that are right for them. “You’ve got to be willing to do some research and find out what’s best for you,” she says. “Everyone’s body chemistry is different. I assure you, though, there’s something that will work for you.”
Visit youngliving.com for more information on purchasing essential oils.
WRITTEN BY shyla stokes | Photography BY emily brashier
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